Nigerians have been reassured by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that the recent tariff changes authorised for MNOs are calculated steps to enhance service quality and guarantee the telecom industry’s long-term viability.
Speaking in Abuja, NCC Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) Dr. Aminu Wada Maida, on behalf of Acting Director of Public Affairs Nnenna Ukoha, stated that the new tariffs are assisting in the recovery of telecom operators’ profitability, which has been negatively impacted by foreign exchange difficulties in recent years.
“About two years ago, some major operators were recording significant losses. Although revenues were increasing, heavy forex-related obligations wiped out much of the gains, which directly impacted service quality,”
“With the recent tariff review, operators are returning to profitability, enabling them to reinvest in network infrastructure. This will result in noticeable improvements in service quality and user experience nationwide,” Dr. Maida explained.
He also disclosed that investment in the telecom industry is anticipated to rise sharply in 2025, surpassing the levels seen in the previous two years.
Regarding the tariff-setting procedure, Dr. Maida explained that the liberalised telecom industry in Nigeria employs an open, data-driven methodology. The Commission approves new tariff structures only after conducting thorough, cost-based evaluations.
Although direct consumer input is not possible in the tariff process because of its technological nature, Dr. Maida stressed that the NCC acts as a powerful safeguard for consumer interests by carefully reviewing operator submissions.
“We are committed to naming and shaming perpetrators and are working with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure that cases of infrastructure damage are fully prosecuted,” he stated.
